Claim of Christian genocide in Nigeria misleading – Akume

The Federal Government has warned that recent statements from the United States about a supposed Christian genocide in Nigeria are not only misleading but also encouraging violent groups to target vulnerable communities.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, issued the warning on Wednesday in Abuja at a press briefing on violent extremism and the claims of Christian genocide.

According to him, framing Nigeria’s insecurity as a religious conflict is being exploited by opportunistic attackers who commit atrocities to justify global narratives.

“Opportunistic violent groups are now seeking to exploit international narratives and make bold statements by attacking soft targets,” he said.
“No credible international organisation has ever designated the conflict as a genocide against Christians.”

Akume’s defence of the government’s position comes despite continued bloodshed in his home state of Benue, which has been repeatedly hit by deadly attacks on rural communities.

This year alone, gunmen have carried out coordinated raids:

In Yelewata, scores were killed and thousands displaced in broad daylight attacks

Apa Local Government Area suffered multiple assaults on villages, leaving dozens dead

The Agatu area, still scarred by a major massacre years ago, continues to experience killings and displacement

Residents and rights groups argue that the pattern of violence, often targeting farming Christian communities, indicates more than just economic motives. Many families insist the attacks aim to destroy them.

Yet the Federal Government maintains there is no religiously motivated genocide.

Akume emphasised that Nigeria’s insecurity is not religiously motivated and affects both Muslims and Christians.

He said the root causes are criminal and economic:

“The root causes remain economic, illegal mining, cattle rustling, kidnapping for ransom and territorial control,” he said.
“Christians and Muslims have suffered equally.”

He added that Nigeria’s armed forces are capable and do not need foreign troops but could benefit from intelligence, technology and equipment support.

The SGF condemned external commentary that he said worsens the situation:

“The current misrepresentation of the crisis as genocide against Christians fuels religious tensions, emboldens extremist and criminal factions, creates diplomatic frictions based on inaccurate interpretations and undermines Nigeria’s efforts to build constructive international security partnerships.”

He urged foreign partners to prioritise intelligence sharing and coordinated support instead of public statements that distort Nigeria’s security reality.

Akume appealed for national cohesion and collective action against extremists:

“Nigerians must speak with one voice to confront a common enemy and completely eradicate extremist groups from our national borders.”

Despite government statements, communities in Benue continue to bear the brunt of repeated attacks. Families mourning the dead and displaced populations are left questioning whether official narratives reflect their lived experiences. For them, security and justice remain urgent needs, far beyond semantics or political debate.